Homemade Protein Shake Recipes

After bariatric surgery, patients often experience rapid weight loss in the first few months. However, this weight loss can sometimes lead to unintended loss of muscle mass. To prevent this, it’s important to consume enough protein, which helps preserve lean body mass. Unfortunately, many patients have difficulty consuming enough protein-rich foods after surgery due to intolerance. 

Nutritional guidelines suggest a minimum protein intake of 0.36 grams per pound of body weight per day (for example, a person whose weight is 200 lb. requires minimum 72 g of protein, calculated as 200*0.36 = 72). Protein needs for patients who work out regularly and vigorously (after 2 months post-op) are higher, even up to twice as much. Since it can be challenging to meet these targets with regular food alone, liquid protein supplements are recommended, especially in the first year after bariatric surgery.

Patients may experience food intolerance (lactose or artificial sweeteners) in the early post op stages, but it usually improves over time. This can be caused by several reasons, for example, changes in the gut bacterial flora due to taking antibiotics. These changes can affect how your body processes lactose, which is a type of sugar found in dairy products. As a result, consuming dairy products can cause symptoms like constipation, bloating, stomach pain or diarrhea. To manage these symptoms, it’s recommended to avoid dairy products for some time after surgery. This is why instead of using regular protein shakes, we recommend trying lactose-free protein powder or lactose-free protein shakes, especially during the full liquid diet. 

To improve tolerance, you should use Lactobacilli supplements (probiotics), which are beneficial bacteria. Based on clinical experience, proper eating techniques, such as chewing thoroughly and eating small portions at each meal can help too.